Fun on the bay

By Rachel Finkelstein

Empire Kayaks

If you’re looking to hit the water in the summer, there’s no need to look far. Empire Kayaks is your one-stop shop for all of your water sport needs. Located at 4 Empire Blvd. in Island Park, Empire Kayaks offers a variety of rental and purchasing options, including kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and the Hobie line of pedal boards and kayaks.

In line with its array of aquatic recreation equipment, there is no shortage of activities to experience at Empire Kayaks. View wildlife on its Marsh Eco Tour, brush up on your skills at kayak and stand up paddleboard clinics, reel in a big one on a kayak fishing tour, or find your inner peace while taking in tranquil surroundings at a paddleboard yoga session.

Now in its 21st year in business, Empire Kayaks remains exceedingly popular, according to owners Michael and Gabrielle Fehling. “We receive families, couples, friends, even company outings,” they said. “We love when customers say, ‘I feel like I was on vacation.’”

So if you are looking for a good workout or a fun summer activity with great views, make sure to check out Empire Kayaks at www.empirekayaks.com or call (516) 889-8300.

Photos by Peter Belfiore/Herald Empire Kayaks co-owner Michael Fehling.

Pedalboards, which are propelled by foot pedals, are available to rent or purchase.

Skudin SUP at Masone Beach and LB Wake

With two Island Park locations, Skudin SUP by Skudin Surf is sure to have your water sport skills whipped into shape.

At its LB Wake and Watersports venue located at 10 Broadway, there are opportunities to improve your strength and overall fitness by renting a paddleboard. This workout is both fun and stress-reducing — a perfect addition to your summer bucket list.

And newly located at Masone Beach this year, Skudin SUP offers kayak rentals in addition to paddleboard rentals. Kayaking is an easy water sport to pick up and a great way to take in the beach scenery while exercising. You can also unwind at sunset stand-up paddleboard yoga on Sundays at 7 p.m. at the Masone Beach location.

If you are new to paddleboarding, have no fear. Skudin SUP offers stand-up paddleboard lessons at both Island Park venues. “We have the great fortune to have Skudin SUP in Island Park. It’s great for families to enjoy together,” said Mayor Michael McGinty. For more information, visit www. skudinsurf.com or call (516) 713-7873.

Photos by Christina Daly/Herald In 2018, Masone Beach in Island Park welcomed Skudin SUP, which offers Sunday sunset yoga sessions. Here, instructor Jenn Hanono showed off one of her inversions.